Our neighbors invited our two year old to ride one of their horses in a lead line class at a fun show. She, of course, if thrilled and loves to go up and "practice". I am one of those first-born, follow the rules types. I would like to know what are the general rules for such a class? I assume she sits and holds on, and I lead. Am I allowed to talk to the horse or child, to touch the horse or child? Should I step around the horse like in a showmanship class? Other than being adorable, what are the judging criteria for such a class?

I used to show...about a thousand years ago, but never in a lead line class. I don't want to make this a big deal or take the fun out of it. But I do think, out of nothing more than politeness, I should follow whatever are the commonly accepted procedures for this.

Thanks for your help. I guess it's time for this old Mom to get back into the swing of things again.

-- Lori in SE Ohio (klnprice@yahoo.com), June 01, 2001

Answers

Hi Lori,

I'm from Chillicothe and have a degree in Equine Management. Your best option would probably be contacting the show secretary regarding rules for the leadline class. I don't recall ever seeing any 'official' rules from AHSA, etc. Most of the leadline classes back home (Illinois) were more a fun thing. All the participants received a ribbon with no real winner. Things may be different here.

I'd be interested in hearing what You find out. I think the most important thing is to have FUN!!!! *smile*

Good Luck!

Randle

-- Randle Gay (rangay@hotmail.com), June 01, 2001.

First of all, you deserve brownie points for asking. Some of the horseshow parents are terribly inconsiderate of others. When we participated at the local fun shows, many years ago for this class, the lead line was treated as a fun class with almost no set rules. The child had to stay on the horse with no help from the leader and the judge needed a clear view of the rider.(The child was also required to be dressed as if in a pleasure class.) We had walk, trot, and line up. Everyone received a ribbon and lots of applause. It is a good idea to check with a show steward before the class. Hope you have fun!

-- Nancy Bakke-McGonigle Mn. Sunset (dmcgonig@smig.net), June 01, 2001.